Lakshmi, Goddess of Wealth
Lakshmi, Goddess of Wealth is a radiant portrayal of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity, fortune, and beauty. Ravi Varma paints her standing gracefully and holding lotus flowers, symbolizing purity. The detailed depiction of Lakshmi, with her calm demeanor and intricate jewelry, is both divine and inviting, symbolizing an eternal source of blessings. This painting has become a cultural icon, defining how millions envision the goddess even today.
Late 19th Century
About the Artwork
Lakshmi is revered as the Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity, and is often associated with beauty and good luck. She is depicted as the consort of Lord Vishnu and is believed to have emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) alongside other divine entities. Iconographically, she is frequently shown seated or standing on a lotus flower, adorned in a red saree, and holding lotuses in her hands, symbolizing purity and spiritual enlightenment.
Raja Ravi Varma's Contribution
Raja Ravi Varma (1848-1906) is recognized as the father of modern Indian art. He was pivotal in making Hindu deities accessible to the masses through his innovative use of oleography (a color printing technique) and lithography. Varma established the Ravi Varma Press in Mumbai, which produced affordable prints of his works, allowing a wider audience to appreciate his art. His portrayal of Lakshmi not only popularized her image but also set a standard for how deities were represented in Indian art.Notable Features of the Painting
This painting depicts Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune, in a serene and idyllic setting. She is portrayed standing gracefully on a large, fully bloomed lotus flower, which symbolizes purity and divine beauty. She has four arms: two are raised in gestures that symbolize granting boons (varada) and protection (abhaya), while the others hold lotuses
The goddess is adorned with intricate traditional jewelry and dressed in a vibrant pink sari with golden borders, showcasing Ravi Varma’s keen attention to detail and mastery of drapery. Her calm expression radiates divinity, benevolence, and maternal grace.
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Did You Know
Did you know that Ravi Varma’s Lakshmi is one of the first images that made Hindu deities accessible and relatable to the public through prints? His work helped bring sacred art into everyday homes!
Here’s something cool: Many homes in India still have images of Lakshmi inspired by Ravi Varma’s iconic portrayal. His vision became the standard for how people visualize Lakshmi and even decorate for the festival of Diwali!
And here’s a fun fact: The coins flowing from Lakshmi’s hands represent wealth, but Ravi Varma also added lotuses to symbolize spiritual purity—a perfect blend of material and spiritual abundance.
